Seven years prior, Eshonai returns to warform alongside Thude and Rlain, exulting in the strength, endurance, and confidence the form provides as they bound across the Shattered Plains. The exhilaration is tempered by the sight of vast Alethi encampments and smoke to the west, signaling a formidable invasion.

Thude presses Eshonai about having supported Gavilar’s assassination, fearing the humans will exterminate them. Eshonai insists Gavilar meant to return their “ancient gods,” a risk she could not allow. She argues the Plains favor listener defense, even if it means being confined, and vows they will learn war, create their own generals, and fight until the humans accept the cost of aggression. She declares the listeners will remain free.

Elsewhere in Narak, Venli gathers trusted scholars and reveals gemstones holding Voidspren, with Ulim—nestled in her gemheart—urging her on. She distributes the gems, explaining they will preserve each person’s current form while granting a secret guide, and outlines a plan to bridge their world and Shadesmar to bring more spren across.

Venli promises they will adopt forms of power without being ruled by spren, claiming they will master the forces and rescue their people from the unwanted war Eshonai has provoked. With Demid eager and Tusa skeptical, Venli commits her inner circle to a covert path toward power.